What is Mange?

What Type of Schooling Does My Vet Have?

Long before your vet was accepted to veterinary school, he or she began the process to become a veterinarian. He or she probably focused on math and science courses in high school before applying to universities and colleges.

Heavy Emphasis on the Sciences

During their university years, prospective veterinarians take a variety of science classes, including biology, organic and inorganic chemistry, physics, anatomy, biochemistry, math and other subjects. Many also volunteer at veterinary offices or animal shelters or work with animals in some capacity.

From Hamsters to Horses

A bachelor's degree is required for entrance to veterinary schools, although some students have master's degrees or Ph.D.'s, according to the American Veterinary Medicine Association. Once admitted to veterinary school, students receive an in-depth medical education that focuses on numerous species of animals. They take classes in anatomy, pharmacology, toxicology, immunology, pathology, biochemistry, microbiology and other subjects that will prepare them to diagnose and treat common illnesses and conditions.

Unlike medical doctors who often specialize, veterinarians are expected to be knowledgeable about all areas of veterinary medicine. An important part of a veterinarian's training involves practicing surgical techniques on animals of all sizes. Veterinary students also participate in school-run clinics to gain experience treating and diagnosing conditions and diseases that affect animals.

Has your pet suddenly started losing hair? Mange may be to blame. The common skin condition affects dogs, cats and rabbits, causing a variety of uncomfortable symptoms.

Tiny Mites Cause Big Problems

Mange is caused by a mite infestation. The microscopic parasites either burrow under your pet's skin or inhabit hair follicles or oil glands in the skin. Mange can be confined to a small area of your pet's coat or may affect the entire body. A small population of mites is always present on your furry friend's body. Symptoms only occur if the number of mites multiplies, or your pet has a weak immune system. Although mange is more common in dogs, it does occur in cats and rabbits, particularly those that live with dogs.

Dandruff. Does your pet suddenly have dandruff? The condition occurs when tiny pieces of skin begin to flake away due to the condition.

Bumps. Military dermatitis, tiny bumps on your pet's skin, may also be a sign of mange.

Thick Skin. If mange is not treated promptly, the skin in the affected areas may thicken.

Poor Sleep. Itching usually intensifies at night and can affect the quality of your pet's sleep.

How is Mange Diagnosed?

Your pet's veterinarian can often tell your pet has mange simply by examining its coat. Skin scrapings examined under a microscope confirm the diagnosis.

How is Mange Treated?

Your pet's veterinarian will prescribe topical or oral medications that kill mites. Medicated shampoos and dips can also be helpful. Antibiotics or anti-fungal medication may be needed if your pet develops an infection as a result of the mite infestation. Since your other pets can catch mange, it's important to treat all of your animals, even if they show no signs or symptoms. Washing bedding, blankets and other items that your pet uses and vacuuming floors and upholstery will help prevent a re-infestation.

Can I Catch Mange?

Although many types of mites only affect pets, some can also cause symptoms in people. For example, you can develop sarcoptic mange, also called scabies, if your skin comes in contact with your pet's. Symptoms of scabies in humans include itching that worsens at night, a red bumpy rash and lesions on the skin. Your doctor can prescribe topical medication that will kill the mites.

Does your pet have any of the signs or symptoms of mange? If you are concerned about a skin condition or other health problem, call us today to schedule an appointment for your furry friend.

Our patient forms are available online so they can be completed in the convenience of your own home or office.

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As the owner of three dogs between 14 years of age and 8 months, I love Noah's Ark. Everybody from the doctors, to the vet techs and front desk staff treat my puppies as if they were their own. They've all given my dogs nothing but the best care.